Vossloh Kiepe delivers the modern electrical equipment for the new Hess trolleybuses.
The environment-friendly 18 metre long vehicles have been modified technically as against the earlier vehicles, of which the latest were delivered in 2009, and have been adapted to the topography of the city. The new trolleybuses offer more comfort and have a higher degree of environmental compatibility:
The new buses are only powered by one traction motor on the third axle, whereas the previous model is powered on two axles. This modification reduces the weight of the vehicles by about 900 kg, which means that more energy and thus costs are saved.
The electric traction drive is regenerative, i.e. braking energy emerging during braking can be led back to the overhead contact line. Due to the optimised traction equipment with an optimised drive control system the vehicles can be moved fast and safely despite the single-axle drive. The drive control system also prevents more precisely that the powered axle slips or slides.
The auxiliary power unit APU with 50 kW differs from its predecessor in that it already fulfils the Euro 5 standard, which means that it has a better exhaust emission characteristic than the preceding model.
Vossloh Kiepe has delivered electrical equipment for trolleybuses in the Dutch Arnheim for more than 20 years. This order once more consolidates the good cooperation between Hess, Vossloh Kiepe and Connexxion. The successful partnership shall last beyond the supply of vehicles. An agreement of long standing between the partners concerning the preventive maintenance and repair ensures the availability of the vehicles at defined costs.